Listening to this audiobook might change your perspective on the death of Elvis Presley. Since his death in 1977, we have been bombarded with rumors and speculation on what exactly happened the “The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Despite rumors he was spotted in a Burger King in Michigan, there has been speculation that Presley faked his death. There are also rumors that “The King” was murdered as a result of his manager’s escalating gambling debts.
“Destined to Die Young” is first book to exam that most of his ailments were genetic, stemming from the fact that his maternal grandparents were first cousins. The goal of author Sally A. Hoedel is present the theory that Elvis was destined to die young, and prove her case with well researched medical data. Hoedel’s assertion is that Presley was born with faulty DNA, damaged recessive genes that were most likely not replaced.
Hoedel points out that both Elvis and his mother died early, Gladys Presley passed away at age 46, and Elvis was on 42 years of age when the world lost “The King.” Even though it was not uncommon for close relations to marry, at the time, there is a higher risk of inheriting unhealthy genes when parents are closely related. The author also notes that there is even higher probability among male offspring.
Early on, Elvis suffered from insomnia, and turned to prescription medication. Elvis and his mother suffered from liver disease, in fact, “The King’s” liver and heart were abnormal sizes at the time of his passing. The author points out that nine of the Elvis’s eleven body systems suffered from disorders or disease. Elvis and Gladys likely inherited liver disease from their family. According to the author, Elvis’s immune system was comprised, as he had chronic sore throat, and ear infections.
Hoedel dissects the autopsy report, and notes the medical world never investigated that genetics could have played a factor in Presley’s early demise. This is a highly recommended listen for Elvis Presley fans!
By: Sally A. Hoedel
Narrated by: Sally A. Hoedel
Length: 9 hrs and 21 mins
Release date: 10-16-23
Publisher: Elvis Author, LLC